The 9th grade class was “called away to prayer” on October 11th for an all-day retreat. The day began with Mass in the monks’ choir stalls at 7:45 a.m., followed by departure for the retreat site at 8:45 a.m. The group arrived at Haw Creek Falls Campground at 9:45 a.m. and explored the creek and falls before preparing lunch over the fire. Then a prayer service at Pam’s Grotto for more exploring before returning to Subiaco and a final blessing in the abbey church. Deacon Roy Goetz noted that he was “very pleased to have the following team members participating in the retreat: Rob Pugh and Father Patrick Boland, OSB.”

On Wednesday, September 20th the 7th and 8th grade classes participated in their annual retreat. After the opening mass by Fr. Patrick, they traveled to the Ozark National Forest northeast of Hagarville. The group arrived mid-morning at Haw Creek Falls and spent time exploring the falls and surrounding area. Lunch was hot dogs cooked over an open fire. After the meal the group hiked to Pam's Grotto, a beautiful thirty-seven-foot seasonal waterfall surrounded by house sized boulders. The trail took them up a forested hillside and along a large sandstone bluff. While there, Fr. Patrick led the boys in a prayer service and period of reflection on the retreat theme of "Perseverance". It was a rewarding experience for both students and the participating adults.